Troops of Operation HADIN KAI under the Joint Task Force (North East) have killed 16 suspected ISWAP terrorists during a counter-offensive in Borno State. The military said the operation followed a failed attack by the insurgents on a Forward Operating Base in Auno.

In a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the terrorists attempted to strike the base shortly before midnight on February 5, 2026. However, soldiers of Sector 1 successfully repelled the assault using coordinated firepower and tactical response. The military described the attack as unsuccessful, with troops maintaining control of the base.

Following the failed attack, troops working alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force launched a follow-up operation on February 9 along the Komala axis in Konduga Local Government Area. The forces pursued the fleeing fighters up to the Gidan Kaji axis, where 16 terrorists were neutralised while several others escaped with injuries.

During the operation, security forces recovered more than 20 bicycles, weapons, and other logistics materials believed to support terrorist activities. Troops also arrested suspected ISWAP logistics suppliers allegedly transporting a large quantity of drugs intended for insurgents around the Bukarti axis. The military reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling terrorist networks across the North East.